Quito City Tour With Teleferico: How to Explore the Historic City of Quito in 6 Hours
When it comes to discovering the rich cultural heritage of Ecuador’s capital, there are few city tours that offer as comprehensive an experience as the Quito City Tour with Teleferico. This 6-hour combination tour comes with a fully narrated guide and round-trip transportation from select hotels in Quito, making it the ideal option for travelers who want to make the most of their limited time.Overview of Quito City Tour With Teleferico
This package tour comprises two key components: A comprehensive city tour of Quito’s historic center and a ride on the teleferico. Both elements of the tour are fully guided, with a certified English/Spanish speaking guide who will provide detailed information about the city’s history, culture, and landmarks. First, the city tour will take you to some of the most significant buildings, churches, and squares in Quito’s downtown area. You’ll have a chance to see landmarks like the Presidential Palace, Independence Square, and the impressive Basilica del Voto Nacional, among others. The guide will give you a commentary on the significance of each site, helping you to gain a better understanding of the city’s rich history. The second part of the tour takes you on a scenic ride on the teleferico, which provides panoramic views of Quito and its surroundings. This cable car ride takes you up to the 4,050-meter-high summit of the Pichincha Volcano, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains and the city below.What’s Included in Quito City Tour With Teleferico
The Quito City Tour with Teleferico is an all-inclusive tour that covers all of the essential elements of a classic Quito city tour. Here’s a breakdown of what’s included in the package:- A certified English/Spanish speaking guide who will provide detailed commentary throughout the tour
- Free hotel pickup and drop-off in Quito
- Private transportation by a comfortable vehicle
- Entrance fees to all of the sights included in the program
Meeting and Pickup for Quito City Tour With Teleferico
The pickup for the Quito City Tour with Teleferico will be from your hotel lobby in Quito. The tour will start at 8:30 AM, and you should be ready to go by this time. Please note that if your hotel is located outside the city center, there may be an extra charge for pickup and drop-off services. Make sure to check with the tour operator in advance if you’re unsure about whether your hotel is eligible for free pickup and drop-off.What to Expect During the Quito City Tour With Teleferico
During the Quito City Tour with Teleferico, you can expect to visit a variety of historic buildings, churches, and squares located in the downtown area. You’ll learn about the city’s colonial history and see some of the most important sites that have shaped the identity of the city over the centuries. Some of the key highlights of the city tour include:- Independence Square: This is the heart of Quito’s historic center, and it’s surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings, including the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Municipal Palace. The square is a great place to start the tour and get a sense of the city’s layout.
- Basilica del Voto Nacional: This impressive basilica is one of the most iconic landmarks in Quito, thanks to its Gothic-inspired architecture and ornate facade. You can climb up to the top of the basilica’s towers for a bird’s eye view of the city.
- The Church of San Francisco: This is one of Quito’s oldest churches, dating back to the 16th century. The church contains a number of important religious artworks and sculptures, and it’s also home to an impressive cloister garden.
Book your Quito City Tour With Teleferico Today
If you’re planning a trip to Quito and want to experience this fantastic city tour for yourself, you can book online with Viator.com. The tour is priced at $80 per person and includes all of the elements listed above. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover the rich cultural heritage of Quito on this comprehensive combination city tour and teleferico ride. Book here to secure your spot today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Quito
1. What is Quito?
Quito is the capital city of Ecuador, a country located in South America. It is situated in the Andes mountain range, at an altitude of approximately 2,800 meters above sea level. Quito is known for its historic colonial center, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978.
2. What is the climate like in Quito?
Quito has a subtropical highland climate, which is characterized by mild, dry winters and cool, wet summers. Temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout the year, with an average high of around 20°C and an average low of around 10°C.
3. What is the currency used in Quito?
The currency used in Ecuador, and therefore Quito, is the US dollar. It is recommended to have small bills and coins on hand, as it can be difficult to get change for larger bills.
4. What are the main attractions in Quito?
Quito has a number of attractions to suit a variety of interests, including:
- The Historic Center of Quito, with its many colonial-era buildings, museums, and churches
- The TelefériQo cable car, which offers stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains
- The Mitad del Mundo monument, which marks the location of the equator
- The Cotopaxi National Park, which is home to the Cotopaxi volcano and a diverse range of flora and fauna
5. What is the best way to get around Quito?
The best way to get around Quito is by taxi, which is relatively affordable and easy to find. It is also possible to use public transportation, such as buses and trolleybuses, although these can be crowded and less comfortable. It is not recommended to drive in Quito, as the traffic can be chaotic and the roads are often poorly marked.
6. What are the best restaurants in Quito?
Quito has a wide range of restaurants serving both traditional Ecuadorian cuisine and international dishes. Some recommended options include:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| La Ronda | Ecuadorian | $$ |
| Urko Cocina Local | Ecuadorian | $$$ |
| Zazu | International | $$$ |
7. Is Quito safe for tourists?
As with any major city, there are certain precautions that should be taken when visiting Quito to ensure safety. These include avoiding poorly-lit areas at night, not carrying large amounts of cash, and keeping an eye on personal belongings in public spaces. It is also recommended to use reputable tour operators for activities outside the city.
8. What is the best time of year to visit Quito?
The best time to visit Quito is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds. However, it is still advisable to pack warm layers, as temperatures can drop at night.
9. Are there any cultural events or festivals in Quito?
Yes, Quito is home to a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular include:
- Carnaval (February/March)
- Semana Santa (Easter week)
- La Fiestas de Quito (December)
10. Do I need a visa to visit Quito?
Visa requirements for visiting Quito vary depending on your country of origin. Many nationalities, including those from the United States and most of Europe, can enter Ecuador as tourists for up to 90 days without a visa. However, it is always recommended to check the latest requirements before traveling.
Quito is a diverse and fascinating city with much to offer visitors. By taking the time to plan your trip and research the different sights and experiences available, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable time in this unique part of the world.
How to spend your time as a tourist in Quito
Located in the Andes Mountains, Quito is the capital of Ecuador and is filled with rich history, culture, and amazing architecture. Quito is known for the “Old Town” which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for being situated at the equator line. Here is a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Quito.1. Explore Old Town
Old Town Quito has plenty of eye-catching architecture, including colonial-era plazas, churches, and monasteries. Some must-visit places in Old Town include:a. La Compañía de Jesús
La Compañía de Jesús is a stunning Baroque-style church that is decorated with gold leaf, giving it a very unique look. The church is open to visitors, and there is a small entrance fee.b. Plaza Grande
Plaza Grande is considered the main square of Quito and is home to the Palacio de Gobierno, which is an excellent photo opportunity. You can also find street performers, handicraft vendors, and food stalls in the square.c. San Francisco Church
San Francisco Church has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is considered one of the most important churches in Quito. The church is rich in history, and it has some amazing religious art pieces inside.2. Visit El Panecillo
El Panecillo is a hill that stands tall over Quito, and it is where a statue of the Virgin Mary stands. The statue is 135 feet tall, and it is visible from many parts of the city. Visitors can take a taxi or walk up the hill to enjoy the stunning views of Quito.3. Learn about Ecuador’s culture and history
Ecuador has a rich history and culture, and there are many places where you can learn more about it. Some places to visit include:a. Museo Nacional
Museo Nacional is a museum showcasing the history of Ecuador. The museum has various exhibits that cover the archaeological past, Colonial Era, and modern-day Ecuador. It is a perfect place to learn about the culture of Ecuador.b. Mitad del Mundo
Mitad del Mundo is a monument located on the equator line, which is where the name “Ecuador” comes from. Visitors can stand with one foot in each hemisphere and learn about the equator line.4. Go on a market tour
Ecuador has a lot of open-air markets, and they are the perfect place to buy souvenirs and try some of Ecuador’s delicious street food. Some must-visit markets include:a. Mercado de Otavalo
Mercado de Otavalo is a large indigenous market that has a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, and food. It is a perfect place to buy souvenirs such as alpaca sweaters, wooden carvings, and woven blankets.b. Mercado San Francisco
Mercado San Francisco is located in Old Town Quito, and it has many vendors that sell fruits, vegetables, meat, and traditional Ecuadorian dishes. It is a perfect place to try some street food.5. Try the local cuisine
Ecuadorian cuisine is diverse and delicious, and there is no shortage of dishes to try while in Quito. Some traditional dishes to try include:a. Cuy
Cuy is a traditional Ecuadorian dish, which is roasted guinea pig. It is a delicacy in Ecuador, and it is often served on special occasions.b. Locro
Locro is a traditional Ecuadorian soup, and it is made with potatoes, corn, cheese, and avocado. It is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold day.Book Your Tour Now
Quito is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are plenty of things to see and do while there. Explore Old Town, visit El Panecillo, learn about Ecuador’s culture and history, go on a market tour, and try the local cuisine. Whether you are interested in architecture, food, or history, there is something for everyone in Quito.Table of Contents
